15 Drought-Resistant Clivia Plants for Indoor Growing

If you’ve ever dreamed of having an indoor garden that could survive a desert, Clivia plants are your perfect match. These remarkable perennials can thrive for weeks without water, making them ideal for busy plant parents or frequent travelers. You’ll find an impressive variety of drought-resistant Clivias, from the classic orange trumpets to rare bicolor specimens, each offering unique patterns and growth habits. Before exploring these stunning varieties, let’s understand what makes them such exceptional survivors.

1. Vibrant Orange Clivia Miniata

Clivia miniata, known for its clusters of vibrant orange trumpet-shaped flowers, is a stunning evergreen perennial that makes an excellent indoor plant. The blooms, which appear in late winter to early spring, emerge from thick, strap-like dark green leaves arranged in a fan pattern. Each flower cluster typically contains 12-20 individual blooms in shades ranging from pale salmon to deep orange, creating a dramatic display that can last for several weeks.

• Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can burn leaves; tolerates lower light conditions but may not flower
• Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter months; avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter; prefer slightly acidic pH (5.5-6.5)
• Temperature: Thrives in 60-75°F (15-24°C); needs cool period (50-55°F) in winter to trigger blooming
• Humidity: Moderate humidity levels; tolerates average indoor conditions
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer; stop feeding during winter dormancy
• Container: Plant in pot with drainage holes; prefers to be slightly pot-bound

2. Luxuriant Yellow C. Gardenii

The Luxuriant Yellow C. Gardenii is a striking variant of the Clivia gardenii species, characterized by its pendulous clusters of tubular yellow flowers that bloom in late autumn to early winter. This variety features long, strap-like dark green leaves arranged in a fan pattern, and its blooms can last several weeks when properly maintained. Unlike the more common orange Clivia varieties, this yellow form is particularly prized by collectors for its rarity and elegant appearance.

• Light: Bright indirect sunlight; morning sun acceptable; protect from harsh afternoon sun
• Water: Allow top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, organic-rich potting mix with added perlite
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 50°F (10°C)
• Humidity: Moderate humidity (40-60%); tolerates average indoor conditions
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Potting: Prefers to be slightly pot-bound; repot every 3-4 years
• Drainage: Excellent drainage essential; use pots with multiple drainage holes

3. Peach Belgian Force Clivia

Peach Belgian Force Clivia is a striking cultivar known for its salmon-peach colored blooms that appear in clusters atop tall stalks. This variety was developed in Belgium and is prized for its unique coloration, which sets it apart from the more common orange and yellow Clivia varieties. The flowers are large and trumpet-shaped, typically blooming in late winter to early spring, with broad, strap-like evergreen foliage that remains attractive throughout the year.

• Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves
• Water: Allow top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix rich in humus
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 35°F
• Humidity: Moderate to high; tolerates average household humidity
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Potting: Prefers to be slightly pot-bound; repot every 3-4 years
• Winter Care: Requires 6-8 weeks of cool temperatures (50-55°F) to initiate blooming

4. Green-striped Citron Clivia

The Green-striped Citron Clivia is a striking ornamental variety known for its distinctive pale yellow to cream-colored flowers with prominent green stripes running along each petal. This rare cultivar grows in a fan-like pattern of broad, strap-shaped leaves and typically blooms in late winter to early spring. The plant reaches heights of 1-2 feet when mature and produces clusters of trumpet-shaped blooms atop sturdy stems.

• Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight; tolerates partial shade
• Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, organic-rich potting mix
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 35°F
• Humidity: Average indoor humidity levels (40-60%)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Container: Deep pot with drainage holes
• pH: 6.0-7.0, slightly acidic to neutral

5. Soft Pink Flowering Clivia

The Soft Pink Flowering Clivia is a rare and delicate variety of Clivia that produces clusters of pastel pink trumpet-shaped blooms atop sturdy stems. Unlike the more common orange Clivia varieties, these plants showcase gentle pink petals with subtle salmon undertones, creating an elegant and sophisticated appearance. The flowers typically appear in late winter to early spring, lasting several weeks when properly maintained.

• Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves; tolerates low light conditions but may not flower as prolifically
• Water: Allow top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter months; avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot
• Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix rich in humus; pH between 6.0-6.5
• Humidity: Moderate humidity levels between 40-60%
• Temperature: Prefers 60-75°F (15-24°C); requires cool period (50-55°F) for 4-6 weeks to initiate blooming
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer; stop feeding during winter rest period

6. Red-Striped Triumph Clivia

The Red-Striped Triumph Clivia is a striking variety characterized by its vibrant orange-red flowers adorned with distinctive crimson stripes running down each petal. This robust cultivar typically produces large flower clusters containing 12-15 blooms per stem, with each individual flower measuring up to 4 inches across. The plant features thick, strap-like dark green leaves that grow in a fan pattern, reaching heights of 18-24 inches when mature.

• Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves; morning sun is acceptable
• Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter months
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 50°F
• Humidity: Moderate humidity levels; tolerates average indoor conditions
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Pot Size: Prefers to be slightly root-bound; repot every 3-4 years
• Soil pH: 6.0-6.5

7. Bronze-tipped Tiger Clivia

The Bronze-tipped Tiger Clivia is a striking variety known for its distinctive orange-red blooms featuring bronze or copper-colored tips on each petal. This cultivar produces large flower clusters atop thick, sturdy stems emerging from dense, strap-like foliage. The individual flowers have a star-shaped pattern with darker central markings, creating an eye-catching tiger-like appearance that gives this variety its name.

• Light: Bright indirect sunlight; avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves; tolerates partial shade
• Water: Allow top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix rich in humus
• Humidity: Moderate to high; tolerates average household humidity
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can survive brief exposure to 40°F (4°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Container: Deep pot with drainage holes to accommodate substantial root system
• pH: Slightly acidic soil, 6.0-6.5

8. Alabaster Pearl Clivia

The Alabaster Pearl Clivia is a rare and highly sought-after variety known for its creamy white to pale yellow blooms with subtle peach undertones. This evergreen perennial, a mutation of the typical orange Clivia miniata, produces clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers atop thick, sturdy stems surrounded by dark green strap-like leaves. The blooms typically appear in late winter to early spring, making it a prized specimen for indoor gardening enthusiasts.

• Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can burn leaves; tolerates partial shade
• Water: Allow top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, organic-rich potting mix
• Humidity: Moderate to high; tolerates average indoor humidity
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 35°F (2°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer; stop feeding during winter
• Pot Requirements: Deep containers with drainage holes
• Repotting: Every 3-4 years or when root-bound

9. Purple-rimmed Twilight Clivia

The Purple-rimmed Twilight Clivia is a striking cultivar known for its distinctive dark purple edges along its salmon-orange petals, creating a dramatic two-toned effect. This rare variety produces large flower clusters with up to 20 blooms per stem, each measuring approximately 3-4 inches across. The flowers emerge from thick, strap-like evergreen foliage that grows in a fan pattern, reaching heights of 18-24 inches at maturity.

• Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves; tolerates partial shade
• Water: Allow top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix with added perlite
• Humidity: Moderate; 40-60%
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 35°F
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Repotting: Every 2-3 years or when pot-bound
• Container: Deep pot with drainage holes to accommodate substantial root system

10. Golden Sunset Clivia

The Golden Sunset Clivia is a striking variety known for its peachy-orange blooms with yellow centers, creating a warm, sunset-like appearance. This particular cultivar produces large flower clusters atop sturdy stems and features broad, strap-like evergreen foliage that grows in an attractive fan pattern. The blooms typically appear in late winter to early spring, making it a cherished indoor plant during darker months.

• Light: Bright indirect light; can tolerate partial shade but avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves
• Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter months
• Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix rich in humus
• Temperature: Prefers 60-75°F (15-24°C); needs cool period (50-55°F) in winter to trigger blooming
• Humidity: Moderate humidity levels; tolerates average indoor conditions
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer; stop feeding during winter dormancy
• Container: Deep pots with drainage holes to accommodate substantial root system

11. Copper-speckled Forest Clivia

The Copper-speckled Forest Clivia is a rare variety of Clivia miniata distinguished by its unique copper-colored spots and speckles across dark green foliage. Native to South African forest understories, this cultivar typically produces clusters of trumpet-shaped orange blooms with subtle bronze undertones during late winter to early spring. The plant reaches heights of 18-24 inches and features thick, strap-like leaves arranged in a fan pattern.

• Light: Bright indirect light; tolerates low light but may not bloom; protect from direct sunlight
• Water: Allow top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix with added perlite
• Humidity: Moderate to high (40-60%)
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 35°F
• Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Pot Type: Deep container with drainage holes
• Potting: Prefers to be slightly root-bound; repot every 3-4 years

12. Marbled Moonlight Clivia

Marbled Moonlight Clivia is a rare and striking variety featuring creamy-white flowers with delicate yellow edges and distinctive variegated foliage. The leaves display a beautiful marbled pattern of green and cream stripes, making it an attractive ornamental plant even when not in bloom. This particular cultivar is slower-growing than standard orange Clivias but is equally drought-tolerant and long-lived.

• Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight; can tolerate low light conditions
• Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix rich in humus
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 35°F (2°C)
• Humidity: Average household humidity; tolerates dry air
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Potting: Prefers to be slightly pot-bound; repot every 3-4 years
• Winter Care: Reduce watering and stop fertilizing; keep cool (55-60°F) to encourage blooming

13. Speckled Scarlet Mountain Clivia

The Speckled Scarlet Mountain Clivia is a rare variety of Clivia miniata featuring distinctive reddish-orange blooms with unique speckled patterns on the petals. This striking cultivar originated from South Africa’s mountainous regions and typically grows to 18-24 inches tall. Its strap-like, evergreen leaves form an attractive fan pattern, while the clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers appear on sturdy stalks during late winter to early spring.

• Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves
• Water: Allow top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix with added perlite
• Humidity: Moderate to high (40-60%)
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 50°F (10°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Container: Deep pot with drainage holes to accommodate substantial root system
• Position: Away from cold drafts and heating vents

14. Pastel Cream Double-flowered Clivia

The Pastel Cream Double-flowered Clivia is a rare and highly sought-after variety known for its elegant, multi-layered blooms in soft cream to pale yellow hues. Unlike standard Clivia varieties, this cultivar produces double rows of petals, creating fuller, more luxuriant flowers that resemble small roses. The blooms appear in clusters atop sturdy stems, contrasting beautifully with the plant’s dark green, strap-like foliage.

• Light: Bright indirect light; protect from direct sunlight; tolerates partial shade
• Water: Allow top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix with added perlite
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 35°F (2°C)
• Humidity: Moderate; 40-60%
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Pot Size: Prefers to be slightly root-bound; repot every 3-4 years
• pH Level: 6.0-6.5

15. Deep-red Emperor Clivia

The Emperor Clivia stands out among clivia varieties for its striking deep-red to burgundy blooms, which appear in clusters atop sturdy stalks during late winter to early spring. Known botanically as Clivia miniata ‘Emperor,’ this robust cultivar produces large flower heads containing up to 20 individual trumpet-shaped blooms, making it a dramatic focal point for indoor spaces. The dark green, strap-like foliage grows in an attractive fan pattern, providing year-round ornamental value even when not in bloom.

• Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight; tolerates partial shade
• Water: Allow top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix with added perlite
• Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 35°F (2°C)
• Humidity: Average household humidity (40-60%)
• Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during growing season with balanced fertilizer
• Pot size: Slightly root-bound conditions promote better flowering
• Repotting: Every 3-4 years or when completely root-bound
• Position: Away from cold drafts and heating vents